Pet Sitters

Pet sitters set their own prices, charging by the visit, the hour, or the week. They may also charge consultation fees, and additional fees on holidays. Some have special pricing plans in place, such as for emergency situations or for administering medications. Depending on the kinds of animals (sometimes pet sitters charge less to care for cats than dogs), basic rates across the country typically vary from $12 to $35 per visit.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the May 2023 median annual salary for animal caretakers was $31,200, with the lowest 10 percent earning $23,180 or less and the top 10 percent earning $45,080 or more annually. These salaries are based on 40-hour work weeks, so pet sitters who work part time (which is common in this occupation) will have lower earnings.

Pet Sitters International (PSI) reported that the "average gross revenue for PSI member businesses in the U.S. was $100,537 in 2023, up from $94,563 in 2022." This information was published in its 2024 State of the Industry Survey. According to the survey, the national average for a 31-minute basic pet care visit was $25.49 in 2024, while a 31-minute dog walking session averaged $25.63. A 12.76-hour overnight stay averaged $96.99.

Some very successful pet sitters earn annual salaries of more than $100,000, while others only make $5,000 a year. Though a pet sitter can make a good profit in any area of the country, a bigger city will offer more clients.

Pet sitters who work for a company usually receive benefits such as health and life insurance, sick leave, vacation days, and a savings and pension plan. Self-employed pet sitters must provide their own benefits.